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Sunday, March 29, 2009

Usually we find the constipation questions in the Embarrassing Questions forum at the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood. At some point or another, most of us after weight loss surgery experience constipation. Really bad unrelenting painful constipation. Have you been there, done that? Recently we discussed this is the Diet, Nutrition & Supplements forum as the Neighbors are looking for natural and reliable relief when nature fails to call. Take a look:

Does anyone know of another juice that has the same effects as Prune juice but without so many carbs?-- Sue W

Link above to read the full post and below is my reply to the question:

Hi Sue - Great question - and I think it is one most of us ponder occasionally (frequently) after WLS. You are correct that prunes and prune juice are high in carbohydrate and it is not the fiber that causes a laxative effect, it is an active enzymes.

Over the years I've tried a number of things but at this point I'm sticking with some herbal teas that are blended for regular bowel movement.

My favorite is by the Republic of Tea (www.republicoftea.com) and is called "Get It Going." It is blended from red South African rooibos, an herb, and includes seinna and ginger. It is not upsetting to the tummy and is not dramatic enough to cause pain or cramping. It tastes like herbal tea and benefits from a small bit of honey and a squeeze of lemon (also a cleansing agent).

Another tea that is available at stores like GNC is "Super Dieter's Tea" in a cranberry blend. This is a bit more powerful and works overnight to give relief the next morning.

I know there are many medications available for relief and have tried many of them. But I've found my happiest results in the teas described above.